About San Juan Island

The San Juan Islands are an archipelago of about 172 named islands. Surrounded by the Salish Sea and Seattle, Vancouver B.C. and Victoria, the Islands offer a diversity of authentic experiences that parallel its natural wonder. San Juan Island, the largest in population of the four ferry served islands, has a population of 5,214 year round residents and 2,150 additional residents that reside in Friday Harbor. San Juan Island is approximately 55 square miles. Friday Harbor, the county seat, located steps from the ferry terminal is steeped in history.

The San Juan Islands boasts two national park sites, a state park and numerous county parks. Washington State’s newest Scenic Byway traverses the Islands including a water route following the Washington State Ferry route and several driving tours on San Juan and Orcas Island, our neighbor Island to the north.

There are so many reasons to visit, natural beauty, recreation, history and culinary exploration.

San Juan Islands in the Media

Each year, the San Juan Islands bring in an impressive amount of media attention from all of the top travel publications. Check out some of the more recent articles and videos and discover what makes the San Juan Islands one of the best places to visit in the country!